Daily Current Affairs

February 14, 2025

Current Affairs

PLI Push in Budget 2025

Context: Funding for the various production linked incentive schemes (PLI) has more than doubled in the recent Union Budget 2025-26. This underscores the importance for the manufacturing sector and the government’s push for making India self-reliant and a major global manufacturing hub.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: PLI Scheme

Mains: PLI Scheme: Objectives, Impacts, Challenges

Increase in PLI Budget (2025-26)

  • FY26 (BE): ₹19,482.58 crore
  • FY25 (RE): ₹9,360.36 crore 
  • Growth: 108% increase

About Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme

  • Aim: To scale up domestic manufacturing capability, accompanied by higher import substitution and employment generation.
  • Launched in March 2020, the scheme initially targeted three industries:
    • Mobile and allied Component Manufacturing
    • Electrical Component Manufacturing and
    • Medical Devices.

Later, it was extended to 14 sectors.

  1. Key Starting Materials (KSMs)/Drug Intermediates (DIs) and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs): Department of Pharmaceuticals
  2. Manufacturing of Medical Devices: Department of Pharmaceuticals
  3. Pharmaceuticals drugs: Department of Pharmaceuticals
  4. Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
  5. Electronic/Technology Products: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
  6. Telecom & Networking Products: Department of Telecommunications
  7. Food Products: Ministry of Food Processing Industries
  8. White Goods (ACs & LED): Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
  9. High-Efficiency Solar PV Modules: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
  10. Automobiles & Auto Components: Department of Heavy Industry
  11. Advance Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery: Department of Heavy Industry
  12. Textile Products: MMF segment and technical textiles: Ministry of Textiles
  13. Specialty Steel: Ministry of Steel
  14. Drones and Drone Components: Ministry of Civil Aviation

Key Features of the PLI Scheme:

  • Outcome-based Incentives: Incentives will be disbursed only after the production has taken place. 
  • Incremental Production Focus:
    • The calculation of incentives is based on incremental production at a high rate of growth. 
    • In some sectors such as advanced chemistry cell batteries, textile products and the drone industry, the incentive will be calculated on the basis of sales, performance and local value addition done over the period of five years.
  • Emphasis on Scale: The scheme focuses on size and scale by selecting producers who can deliver high volumes.
  • Strategic Sectors: Sectors chosen include, those with:
    • Cutting-edge technology
    • Potential for integration with global value chains
    • High job-creation capacity
    • Sectors closely linked to the rural economy. 
  • WTO Compliance: The scheme is designed to align with World Trade Organisation (WTO) commitments, as the quantum of support is not directly linked to exports or value-addition.

Read More: Production Linked Incentive 

PLI Scheme for Smartphones: A Case Study

  • Growth in Smartphone Production & Exports:
    • India has become a key player in global smartphone exports.
    • Handsets are now the second highest exported product from India
    • Exports Value (April-November 2024): $13.1 billion
    • Target for 2025: More than $20 billion in smartphone exports.
  • Investment & Incentive Disbursal:
    • Total Investment Committed: ₹11,324 crore
    • Total Production Target: ₹10.7 lakh crore
    • Disbursed Incentives (2022-25): ₹8,700 crore to 19 eligible companies
    • Investment Made (as of June 2024): ₹8,282 crore
image 104
  • Employment Generation:
    • Direct employment created: 1,22,613 jobs in three years
    • Indirect employment: Increased opportunities in logistics, retail, and supply chain
  • Challenges Faced:
    • Failure of Some Domestic Players: Companies like Lava, Bhagwati, and Optiemus failed to meet PLI targets.
    • Investment-Subsidy Mismatch: Actual investment by companies (₹8,282 crore) is slightly lower than total disbursal (₹8,700 crore).
    • Over-Reliance on Global Giants: Over 75% of incentives went to Apple's contract manufacturers (Foxconn, Tata Electronics, Pegatron).

The PLI scheme, complemented by the National Manufacturing Mission, is pivotal in making India a global manufacturing hub. 

By boosting investment, reducing import dependence, and enhancing domestic value addition, it strengthens Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Effective implementation and infrastructure development will be key to its long-term success.

NSCN (I-M) calls upon Prime Minister to uphold 2015 Framework

Context: National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) has called upon the Prime Minister to uphold the 2015 framework agreement. In this context, let us understand the framework agreement, its key features, contentious issues and a way forward.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts about 2015 Framework Agreement Between NSCN (I-M) and Government of India.

Mains: Naga issue: Internal security challenges & way forward. 

About 2015 Framework Agreement between NSCN (I-M) and Government of India

  • The Framework Agreement (FA) was signed in 2015, between the Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim- Isak-Muivah (NSCN-I/M). 
  • It was a significant step in resolving the decades-old Naga insurgency and moving towards a permanent peace settlement.

Key features of the Agreement:

  • Recognition of Naga identity: Indian government recognised the "unique history, culture, and position" of the Nagas.
  • Shared sovereignty: The agreement introduced the idea of shared sovereignty, meaning that Nagas would have a special political and administrative status while remaining within India.
  • Peaceful resolution through dialogue: The agreement was meant to lay the groundwork for a final peace settlement through further negotiations.
  • Autonomous Governance: As per the interpretation of NSCN (I-M) the agreement has allowed for a special autonomous arrangement for Nagas, with enhanced legislative, executive, and financial powers.
  • No immediate territorial change: While NSCN (I-M) sought integration of all Naga-inhabited areas (including parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Manipur) into a unified "Nagalim," the agreement did not explicitly promise redrawing of state boundaries.
image 1

Contentious Issues

  • Separate flag and constitution: NSCN (I-M) insists that the agreement included provisions for a Naga flag and constitution, which the Indian government has not accepted.
  • Framework agreement as a stumbling block: The vague wording of the 2015 Framework Agreement (FA) has led to contrasting interpretations by NSCN (I-M) and the Indian government. NSCN (I-M) interprets "sharing sovereign power" as an acknowledgment of separate sovereignty, which the government does not accept.
  • Impact of Article 370 Abrogation (2019): Before August 5, 2019, Jammu & Kashmir had a separate constitution and flag, setting a precedent. After Article 370 was revoked, the Indian government hardened its stance, making it politically impossible to accept similar demands from NSCN (I-M).
  • Poor drafting of agreement: Agreement has been drafted vaguely, allowing both sides to interpret it differently.
  • Internal divisions among Naga groups: During former interlocutor R.N. Ravi’s tenure, smaller groups like the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) gained prominence. This strategy weakened NSCN (I-M) but also stalled the peace process, as NSCN (I-M) saw it as an attempt to divide Nagas. 
  • No clear timeframe for final accord: Despite reinitiating talks, there is no clarity on a final agreement due to the unresolved flag and constitution issue. 
  • Lack of Clarity:  The full text of the Framework Agreement has never been made public, leading to differing interpretations. 

Current Status

  • Stalemate: Since 2019, negotiations have been stuck, primarily over the issue of the separate flag and constitution.
  • NSCN (I-M) has demanded that the government honor the original spirit of the agreement.
  • No Final Settlement yet: Despite years of talks, a comprehensive peace accord is yet to be signed.  There has not been a full-time interlocutor for the negotiations since 2021.

Read More: NAGA Issue 

Way Forward

  • Inclusion of all factions: A comprehensive accord cannot be achieved without the participation of NSCN (I-M) and other armed factions. The government must engage with all stakeholders, including Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), to ensure inclusivity.
  • Political & Administrative Autonomy: Establishing a bicameral Assembly for Nagaland, with nominated members representing different Naga tribes. Granting greater legislative and financial autonomy to the Naga Assembly.
  • Integration of Naga cadres: Absorbing NSCN (I-M) cadres into local armed forces or Indian paramilitary units to prevent the resurgence of insurgency. The government can also provide a structured rehabilitation package to integrate former militants into mainstream society.
  • Autonomous Councils for Naga areas in neighboring states: Setting up autonomous councils for Naga-dominated regions in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Manipur. These councils should have powers similar to those under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
  • Cultural & Symbolic Recognition: Promoting Naga identity through cultural institutions, local governance models, and linguistic rights.
  • Trust-building measures: The government should appoint a dedicated full-time interlocutor to facilitate smooth negotiations. Confidence-building measures, such as greater economic investments, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges, to reinforce peace efforts.
  • Timeline for final accord: A clear roadmap with deadlines for the final agreement to ensure transparency and commitment from both sides.

Article 371 A of the Indian Constitution:

It is to be noted that Article 371 A of the Constitution of India makes some special provisions for the State of Nagaland: 

  1. The Acts of Parliament relating to the following matters would not apply to Nagaland unless the State Legislative Assembly so decides:
  • Religious or social practices of the Nagas.
  • Naga customary law and procedure.
  • Administration of civil and criminal justice involving decisions according to Naga customary law; and
  • Ownership and transfer of land and its resources.
  1. The Governor of Nagaland shall have special responsibility for law and order in the state so long as internal disturbances caused by the hostile Nagas continue. In the discharge of this responsibility, the Governor, after consulting the Council of Ministers, exercises his individual judgement and his decision is final. This special responsibility of the Governor shall cease when the President so directs.
  2. The Governor has to ensure that the money provided by the Central Government for any specific purpose is included in the demand for a grant relating to that purpose, and not in any other demand moved in the State Legislative Assembly.
  3. A regional council consisting of 35 members should be established for the Tuensang district of the state. The Governor should make rules for the composition of the council, manner of choosing its members, their qualifications, term, salaries, and allowances; the procedure and conduct of business of the council; the appointment of officers and staff of the council and their ser- vice conditions; and any other matter relating to the constitution and proper functioning of the council.

Scope of ISRO Technologies in Daily Life

Context: Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has identified over 150 technologies developed for various ISRO missions that can be shared with industry to be utilised for other purposes.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Questions on scope of usage of space technologies in daily life.

Mains: Examples can be utilised in relating space R&D with daily life.

Space Technologies and their use in other domains

TechnologiesUsage
Collision Avoidance system: The software, camera and algorithms designed in Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing to reduce speed to prevent collision. It can be used to assist in hazard detection and navigation, offering potential improvements in automotive safety systems.
Automatic Deployment sensors: Pressure sensors used to monitor propellant levels during rocket launch.It can be repurposed to determine optimal airbag deployment timing in vehicles, thereby enhancing safety of passengers during collisions.
Anti-Corrosive coatings like NRCM-204 are capable of protecting metals and composites from various types of corrosion.Construction material: This coating can be utilised in construction to safeguard structures against environmental degradation.Fire resistance: Benzoxazine polymer developed by ISRO is easily processable, stable across different temperatures and can act as an effective flame retardant.
3D LiDAR: Technology is used for space navigation by generating 3D images with depth information.Detection and counting of people in heavily crowded places. Near-terrain flight assistance for helicopters and hazards or pedestrian detection to avoid collision. Healthcare: LiDAR cameras can be used for body measurements with precision (like waist & hip size) to predict the risk of lifestyle diseases.Appliances: It can be used in home devices, including gesture recognition in mobile phones, television and gaming platforms.
Lithium ion battery: ISRO’s cost effective Li-ion batteries making technology.This technology can be utilised for the electric vehicles technology increasing their efficiency.
Vibration control technology to bear the shocks and vibrations in the rocket and payload.Seismic control: The technology can be used to make buildings earthquake resistant.Enhancing comfort: The technology can further enhance the comfort of road, airways, railways and sea transportation. 

About IN-SPACe

  • The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre is an autonomous agency under the Department of Space, Government of India.
  • Key functions of the agency: 
    • Promotion and authorisation of the private entities including non-governmental enterprises to engage in various space-related activities.
    • Infrastructure sharing including ISRO facilities with the private players.
    • Facilitating new facilities established by private entities, fostering innovation and growth within the sector.

Malaria Elimination: Efforts & Challenges  

Context: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially certified Georgia as Malaria-free. Despite decades of global efforts, Malaria still causes over 240 million cases and more than 600,000 deaths annually.

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about Malaria; Malaria vaccines; CRISPR and Gene Drive. 

About Malaria

  • About: Life-threatening disease caused by plasmodium parasites transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes.
  • Transmission: Through blood transfusion, organ transplant, shared use of needles or syringes contaminated with blood, because malaria parasite is found in red blood cells of an infected person.
  • Types: There are 5 parasite species that cause malaria in humans, and 2 of these species: Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax pose the greatest threat.
    • Vivax plasmodium is known to hide in the liver and cause recurrent infections.
  • Symptoms: Fever, chills, sweats, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as organ failure and death.
  • Diagnosis: Through blood tests.
  • Antimalarial medications: Chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), but drug resistance is a growing concern.
  • Prevention: To control the vector, insecticide-treated bed nets (ITNs) are used by endemic countries.
  • Vaccine: RTS,S/AS01 (brand name Mosquirix) and R21/Matrix M.
  • Path to malaria eradication:
    • By WHO: Reducing case incidence and mortality rates by 75% in 2025 and 90% in 2030. 
    • By India: Malaria-free by 2027 and to eliminate the disease by 2030.

Malaria parasite’s life-cycle

  • An infected Anopheles mosquito bites a human, injecting Plasmodium sporozoites that are highly infective into the bloodstream. 
  • These parasites first travel to the liver, invading liver cells and multiplying undetected by the immune system. 
  • After this phase, they re-enter the bloodstream, infecting red blood cells and causing malaria’s characteristic fever and chills. 
  • The parasite multiplies asexually within RBCs, however, some develop into sexual forms known as gametocytes, which are then taken up by another mosquito when it bites an infected individual. 
  • Inside the mosquito, these gametocytes undergo sexual reproduction, maturing into sporozoites that migrate to the mosquito’s salivary glands, making the mosquito infectious to new human hosts. 
image 101

Challenges in developing a universal Malaria Vaccine: 

  • Deception to evade Immune system: 
    • Plasmodium is a protozoan parasite and eukaryotic organism with multiple stages of development, each featuring different surface antigens. The Malaria parasite masters deception, evading the human immune system.
      • Its greatest strength is antigenic variation, where it frequently changes its surface proteins, making it difficult for immune cells to recognise it and respond.
      • Plasmodium follows an intracellular lifestyle, hiding within the liver and RBCs, shielding itself from immune surveillance. 
    • This ability to evade detection weakens the body’s ability to develop long-lasting immunity, making reinfection common. 
  • Adaption and Evolution:
    • Malaria’s life cycle spans multiple stages across two hosts—humans and mosquitoes. So when a vaccine is developed, the parasite’s genetic adaptability enables it to evolve resistance. 
    • When scientists find a way to combat one strain, the parasite alters its proteins and genetic structure to bypass immunity. The adaptability makes it difficult to develop a universal and long-lasting vaccine.

Malaria vaccines

  • RTS, S malaria vaccine (brand name Mosquirix) was the first to receive WHO approval for large-scale rollout in endemic regions after 60 years of research.
    • It targets the liver stage of the parasite’s life cycle. However, its efficacy is limited, reducing malaria cases by approximately 36% after four doses over four years in children. 
    • RTS, S requires multiple doses, posing logistical challenges in resource-limited regions.
  • Second-generation malaria vaccines:
    • R21/Matrix-M vaccine is one second-generation malaria vaccine which enhances the immune response and has shown 77% efficacy over 12 months. 
    • PfSPZ vaccine is a whole-parasite vaccine that attenuates Plasmodium sporozoites to stimulate immunity against the liver stage of infection. 
    • RH5-based vaccines prevent Plasmodium from invading red blood cells and target the blood stage after symptoms. 
    • Transmission-blocking vaccines aim to halt the spread of malaria by preventing mosquitoes from becoming carriers.

CRISPR and Gene Drive: Global fight for Malaria

  • Under normal law of inheritance, a specific trait from an organism has a 50/50 chance to be passed. (Offspring inherit one copy of each gene from each parent, resulting in a random chance of expressing either mother’s version or father’s version)
  • Gene Drive is the use of gene-editing techniques to alter the law of inheritance to pass on a particular genetic trait from one generation to the next generation, faster than the normal rate.
    • This is achieved by editing a particular gene in a way that it can copy and paste itself into its corresponding location on the other chromosome, instead of the 50/50 inheritance pattern that occurs naturally. 
    • This copying and pasting occurs during the production of reproductive cells (sperm or egg), resulting in a higher probability that the gene will be passed down to the next generation. 
image 102
  • CRISPR is being used to edit a gene called ‘doublesex’ in female mosquitoes which are the main transmitters of Malaria. 
  • When the female mosquitoes inherit two copies of the disrupted gene, they develop like males and are unable to bite or lay eggs.
  • This genetic tweak of double-sex gene follows gene drive inheritance. With this, in 8 generations female mosquitoes are completely eliminated.

Malaria is a neglected tropical disease (i.e, mainly prevalent among impoverished communities in tropical areas). Malaria vaccine research has long suffered from underfunding. Countries risk resurgence of Malaria due to shifting mosquito habitats. 

An effective malaria control strategy will require a combination of more efficient vaccines, mosquito control & improved treatment options.

Should India exit the WTO?

Context: Indian farmers demand that India should exit the World Trade Organisation (WTO). They believe WTO rules hinder their ability to secure a legal guarantee for a minimum support price (MSP).

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: WTO- Agreement on Agriculture, National Treatment, MFN

Mains: WTO- Issues, Importance. 

About World Trade Organisation

  • Origin:
    • WTO came into being in 1995. 
    • WTO is the successor to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) established in the wake of the Second World War.
  • Objective: To help trade flow smoothly, freely and predictably.
  • It has 164 members, accounting for 98% of world trade.
  • The WTO Secretariat is based in Geneva (Switzerland).
  • Non-discrimination principles: Most-Favoured Nation and National Treatment
image 100

What is WTO’s Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)?

  • Background:
    • The AoA is an international treaty of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), negotiated during the Uruguay Round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
    • It entered into force with the establishment of the WTO on 1 January 1995.
  • What does it include: It includes the classification of subsidies by "boxes" depending on consequences of production and trade:
    • Amber Box: most directly linked to production levels.
    • Blue Box: production-limiting programmes that still distort trade. 
    • Green Box: minimal distortion. 
  • While payments in the amber box had to be reduced, those in the green box were exempt from reduction commitments. 
  • However, all must comply with the "fundamental requirement":
    • To cause not more than minimal distortion of trade or production
    • Must be provided through a government-funded programme that does not involve transfers from consumers or price support to producers.

Three Pillars of AoA

  • Domestic support:
    • It calls for reduction in domestic subsidies that distorts free trade and fair price.
    • Under this provision, the Aggregate Measurement of Support (AMS) is to be reduced by 20% over a period of 6 years by developed countries and 13% over a period of 10 years by developing countries.
    • Under this, Subsidies are categorised into:
Green BoxAmber BoxBlue Box
Subsidies that do not distort trade, or at most cause minimal distortion.


They are government-funded and must not involve price support.
They also include environmental protection and regional development programmes.


“Green box” subsidies are therefore allowed without limits, provided they comply with the policy-specific criteria.		All domestic support measures considered to distort production and trade (with some exceptions) fall into the amber box as all domestic supports except those in the blue and green boxes.


These include measures to support prices, or subsidies directly related to production quantities.		This is the amber box with conditions. Such conditions are designed to reduce distortion.


Any support that would normally be in the amber box is placed in the blue box if the support also requires farmers to limit production.


At present, there are no limits on spending on blue box subsidies.
  • Market access: 
    • Market access for goods in the WTO means the conditions, tariff and non-tariff measures, agreed by members for the entry of specific goods into their markets.
    • Market access requires that tariffs fixed (like custom duties) by individual countries be cut progressively to allow free trade. 
    • It also required countries to remove non-tariff barriers and convert them to Tariff duties.
  • Export subsidies:
    • Subsidy on inputs of agriculture, making export cheaper or other incentives for exports such as import duty remission etc. are included under export subsidies.
    • These can result in dumping of highly subsidized (and cheap) products in other countries and damage the domestic agriculture sector of other countries.

 AoA and MSP Challenges

  • Under Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), Minimum Support Price (MSP) is categorised as a trade-distorting subsidy.
  • Rationale: 
    • If countries are permitted to provide such subsidies to their farmers, it would give them an unfair advantage in the global market.
    • This would render agricultural products from other countries uncompetitive.
    • Therefore, trade-distorting subsidies like MSP are subject to specific limits.
  • However, AoA has significant imbalances: Issue of External reference price (ERP)
    • ERP is an average price established based on the base years of 1986-88 against which MSP is compared to determine trade-distorting subsidies. This ERP has not been revised in decades.
    • Consequently, the gap between the MSP and the fixed ERP has widened dramatically due to inflation.
  • India has been negotiating diligently at the WTO to rectify this issue but without success.

Existing Policy Flexibility within WTO Framework

  • Peace Clause Utilisation: 
    • It allows India to exceed subsidy limits for rice and wheat without legal challenges.
    • Limitations: Applies only to food security programs, not all crops.
  • Alternative Support Mechanisms: Income Support Schemes
    • PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi: Provides ₹6,000/year to farmers; classified as non-trade-distorting.
    • However, the 2025 Budget has failed to enhance such schemes.

Consequences of Exiting the WTO: 

  • Loss of Trade Benefits:
    • National Treatment: Indian exports could face discrimination in foreign markets.
    • Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) Status: Loss would require renegotiating bilateral FTAs, which can be:
      • Complex and Costly: Higher bureaucratic and compliance burdens.
      • Unfavourable Terms: Developed countries often impose stricter conditions in FTAs.
  • Dispute Resolution Void:
    • WTO’s Dispute Settlement Mechanism provides a structured, rules-based system (e.g. India’s successful cases against the US/EU).
    • Current Crisis: Appellate Body non-operational but still more effective than FTA-based diplomacy.

WTO’s Broader Role and Global Context: 

  • Beyond Agriculture:
    • Multilateral Trade Governance: Ensures non-discriminatory access to global markets for goods/services.
    • Strategic Importance for India: Critical for a developing economy reliant on exports (e.g. IT, pharmaceuticals).
  • Geopolitical Imperatives:
    • US-China Rivalry: A weakened WTO enables unilateralism (e.g. US tariffs on China).
    • India’s Stake: Strengthening multilateralism curbs protectionism and safeguards developing nations.

Way Forward

  • Policy Reforms within WTO:
    • Revise ERP: Lobby for inflation-adjusted reference prices.
    • Leverage Peace Clause: Expand coverage to more crops.
  • Domestic Measures:
    • Boost Income Support: Enhance schemes like PM-KISAN to reduce reliance on MSP.
    • Farmer Engagement: Educate stakeholders on WTO’s benefits and collaborative reform strategies.
  • Strategic WTO Engagement:
    • Strengthen Multilateralism: Advocate for appellate body revival and dispute resolution reforms.
    • Counter Protectionism: Collaborate with developing nations to uphold fair trade practices.

Trade multilateralism, the principle that the WTO represents, is the best bet for developing countries like India. It is essential to communicate clearly with farmers and involve them in this process, as they are key stakeholders.

Should convicted candidates contest Elections?

Context: The Supreme Court of India is currently hearing petitions seeking a lifetime ban on convicted individuals from contesting elections.

Relevance of the Topic:Mains: Electoral Reforms: Can convicted candidates contest elections? 

Legal Provisions in this regard

  • Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act, 1951): Disqualifies individuals convicted of criminal offences and sentenced to imprisonment for two years or more. Such individuals remain disqualified for six years post-release.
  • Section 8(1) of RP Act, 1951: It further disqualifies individuals convicted under specific laws. The disqualification lasts during the sentence and 6 years post the release. The offences include:
    • Heinous crimes like Rape.
    • Protection of Civil Rights (PCR) Act, Preaching or practicing Untouchability.
    • Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for unlawful associations.
    • Prevention of Corruption Act.
  • Section 11 of RP Act, 1951: It empowers the Election Commission (EC) to remove or reduce the disqualification period of a convicted person.

Present Trends

A report by ADR states that: 

  • 251 (46%) of the 543 elected MPs in 2024, have criminal cases against them.
  • 171 (31%) face serious criminal charges including rape, murder, attempt to murder and kidnapping.
  • Candidates with criminal records have a 15.4% chance of winning, compared to 4.4% for candidates with a clean record.

Supreme Court decisions in the past:

  • Association for Democratic Reforms (2002): This mandated disclosure of criminal records of candidates contesting elections.
  • CEC vs Jan Chaukidar (2013): Patna High Court interpreted that under-trial prisoners, as non-electors under Section 62(5) of RP Act, 1951, are ineligible to contest elections. However, Parliament amended the law to allow them to contest elections.
  • Lily Thomas Case (2013): Struck down Section 8(4) of RP Act, 1951, which allowed convicted legislators to continue in office if they filed an appeal. Post-judgment, disqualification is immediate upon conviction.

Current Petition:

  • The petition seeks a lifetime ban on convicted individuals from contesting elections, arguing that convicted persons are ineligible for even junior government jobs, so they should not be lawmakers.

Central Government’s stance (2020 affidavit): 

  • MPs and MLAs are not subject to ‘service conditions’ like government employees. The existing six-year disqualification post-release is deemed sufficient.
  • The Supreme Court has sought fresh responses from the Central Government and the EC on the issue.

Arguments for and against a permanent ban on convicted candidates from contesting elections:

Arguments in favorArguments against
- Integrity of Legislative bodies: A permanent ban is seen as a necessary measure to maintain the integrity of legislative bodies. The current temporary bans are considered inadequate.

- Criminalisation in politics It would address the broader issue of criminalization in politics.

- Conflict of interest Convicted politicians returning to Parliament and State Legislatures face a conflict of interest when vetting laws.

- Democratic integrity Allowing those convicted of heinous crimes to return after a short sentence defeats democratic integrity.		- Banning candidates with criminal records may impact parties expected winning probabilities, benefiting third-party candidates.

-Case to case basis Each case should be decided on its own merit, considering the gravity of offenses and criminal history.

Way forward

  • Law Commission and EC Recommendations:
    • In 1999 and 2014, it has been suggested barring candidates from contesting if charged with offences carrying over five years of imprisonment.
    • However, political consensus on this has been lacking due to likely misuse.
    • Permanent disqualification may be disproportionate for minor convictions without moral turpitude.
    • Matters related to heinous crimes and corruption-related convictions may warrant lifetime disqualification.
    • The EC’s power to alter disqualification periods should be reviewed for constitutional validity.

While a complete lifetime ban on convicted politicians is under consideration, stricter measures for serious crimes and a review of the EC’s discretionary powers could be viable steps toward reducing the criminalization of politics.

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